28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.49 percent of residents in 28425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pender Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.61 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burgaw (ZIP Code 28425)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding prompt and effective healthcare access. For residents of Burgaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28425), understanding the complexities of transportation to medical facilities is paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the practicalities of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare, focusing on drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options. The goal is to illuminate the landscape for current residents and those *moving to Burgaw*, ensuring informed decisions regarding healthcare access.

Burgaw, a charming town nestled in Pender County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the pace of life is slower, the availability of specialized medical care, particularly for lung cancer, often necessitates travel outside the immediate vicinity. This geographical reality underscores the critical role of transportation in the overall well-being of residents.

**The Drive Time Dilemma:**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of *transportation*. Accessing lung cancer specialists and treatment centers often involves navigating a network of highways and local roads. The most direct route to Wilmington, the nearest city with comprehensive cancer care, usually involves traveling along US-117 South. This highway, a vital artery connecting Burgaw to the coast, provides relatively straightforward access.

However, the drive time to Wilmington, approximately 30 miles, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, particularly weekdays, the commute can stretch to an hour or more. This is a crucial consideration for individuals undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments, or facing emergencies.

Alternative routes exist, though they often add to the travel time. Taking NC-53 East, then connecting to US-17 South, offers a slightly longer but potentially less congested option. This route, however, introduces more turns and rural roads, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area or facing mobility limitations.

Further afield, the drive to larger medical centers in Jacksonville (approximately 60 miles) or Raleigh (approximately 120 miles) presents a significant time commitment. These journeys, often requiring travel on US-17 and I-40, can easily exceed an hour and a half or two hours, respectively. This distance factor can be a major impediment to *healthcare access*, especially for those requiring specialized treatments or participating in clinical trials.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public *transportation* options in Burgaw are limited. The availability of reliable public transit is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Pender County does offer a public transit service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to specifically address the needs of those seeking specialized medical care. The service primarily focuses on local transportation within the county, with limited connections to Wilmington.

The absence of a dedicated bus route to Wilmington's medical facilities is a major drawback. This lack of direct public transit significantly impacts *healthcare access* for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of existing public transit is also a crucial consideration. Information on ADA features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is essential for individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible *transportation* alternative. However, their availability in Burgaw may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Medical Transport and MedStar Transportation often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. These services, while potentially more expensive than ride-sharing, can be invaluable for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring assistance.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Its Implications:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Burgaw (ZIP Code 28425) reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing lung cancer-related healthcare. The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and the availability of medical *transportation* services.

The score will be influenced by several key factors. The primary determinant will be the drive time to Wilmington, the nearest city with comprehensive cancer care. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, along with the cost of medical *transportation*, will also significantly impact the score. The limited availability of public transit, particularly the lack of direct routes to medical facilities, will negatively affect the score.

For those *moving to Burgaw*, this analysis provides a vital framework for understanding the *healthcare access* landscape. It underscores the importance of considering *transportation* options when making decisions about housing and healthcare. It also highlights the need for proactive planning, including establishing reliable *transportation* arrangements and understanding the potential costs associated with accessing specialized medical care.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations:**

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance *healthcare access* for Burgaw residents, several recommendations are crucial. Advocacy for increased public transit options, including dedicated routes to Wilmington's medical facilities, is paramount. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments could also prove beneficial.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical *transportation* services and providing financial assistance to those in need could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals battling lung cancer. The town could also explore initiatives to educate residents about available *transportation* resources and assist them in navigating the complexities of accessing healthcare.

Finally, ongoing monitoring of *transportation* patterns and healthcare needs is essential. As Burgaw grows and the healthcare landscape evolves, the "Lung Cancer Score" should be regularly updated to reflect the changing realities of *healthcare access* in the community. This commitment to continuous improvement will ensure that residents of Burgaw have the best possible chance of receiving timely and effective care.